The gruesome sight was first noticed back in July, and the investigation has only expanded since then, writes The Independent, reports Index.
It all started on July 28, when a man in Searchlight, a remote community an hour south of Las Vegas, encountered a terrifying sight. In August, the Land Management Office confirmed that these were indeed human remains, that is, crushed bones left after cremation. As of Wednesday, Palm Mortuaries and Cemeteries had collected about 315 piles, but another area of remains was discovered nearby, further expanding the investigation.
Nevada law does not prohibit individuals from scattering ashes on public land. However, “commercial distribution of cremated remains,” according to the Bureau of Land Management, is not permitted. This is precisely why the investigators suspect that a funeral company is behind this act, but so far they have not named any company as a possible culprit.
At the time of collection, no identifying marks were found with the remains. To ensure a dignified send-off, Palm Mortuaries plans to bury all remains together in a mass grave at its cemetery, where loved ones will be able to visit once the remains are identified.
“I think it’s important that we make sure that these people are not forgotten and abandoned,” said Celena DiLullo, president of Palm Mortuaries and Cemeteries. “It’s important for our community and our profession to show how much we care about those people.”
Although there have been rumors that the remains may have come from a recently closed funeral home, his representative has repeatedly denied this. Officials also confirmed that the case is not related to McDermott’s Funeral Home, which was shut down by Nevada authorities in August.
(Vijesti.ba)
